Describing an interesting place you’ve visited with a friend is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to recount personal experiences, use descriptive language, and express opinions. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about places you’ve visited. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you enjoy traveling with friends?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find traveling with friends to be incredibly enjoyable. It’s a wonderful opportunity to create shared memories and strengthen bonds. Plus, having someone to share experiences with often makes the journey more fun and less stressful. That being said, it’s crucial to choose travel companions wisely, as compatibility can make or break a trip.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe an interesting place you have been to with a friend
You should say:
- Where the place was
- When you went there
- What you did there
- And explain why you found this place interesting
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a fascinating place I visited with my college roommate last summer – the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. We decided to go there as part of our graduation trip, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.
Petra is located in southern Jordan and is famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. We spent three days exploring the site, and each day brought new wonders. The highlight was definitely the Treasury, a massive façade carved into the pink sandstone cliff. We also hiked up to the Monastery, which offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
What made Petra particularly interesting was its rich history and the mystery surrounding its construction. It’s amazing to think that this city was built over 2000 years ago and remained hidden from the Western world until the early 19th century. The engineering skills of the ancient Nabataeans, who carved this city out of the rock face, were truly impressive.
Moreover, the blend of various architectural styles, from Hellenistic to Roman, showcased the city’s importance as a crossroads of ancient trade routes. Walking through the Siq, the narrow gorge leading to the Treasury, felt like stepping back in time.
In conclusion, Petra was not just visually stunning but also deeply educational. It gave us a tangible connection to ancient history and left us in awe of human ingenuity and perseverance.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share my experience of visiting the awe-inspiring ancient city of Petra in Jordan, which I explored with my university roommate last summer as part of our post-graduation adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in southern Jordan, left an indelible impression on both of us.
Petra, often referred to as the “Rose City” due to the color of the rock from which it is carved, is a marvel of ancient engineering and artistry. We dedicated three full days to immersing ourselves in its wonders, each day unveiling new facets of this archaeological gem. The piece de resistance was undoubtedly the Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, a colossal facade intricately carved into the pink sandstone cliff. Its grandeur and craftsmanship were truly breathtaking.
One of our most memorable experiences was the challenging but rewarding hike to the Monastery. The panoramic vistas from the summit were absolutely spectacular, offering a bird’s eye view of the rugged landscape and ancient ruins below.
What rendered Petra particularly fascinating was its rich tapestry of history and the air of mystery that still surrounds its construction. The fact that this architectural marvel was built over two millennia ago and remained concealed from the Western world until its rediscovery in 1812 by Johann Ludwig Burckhardt is mind-boggling.
The ingenuity and architectural prowess of the ancient Nabataeans, who meticulously carved this city out of the rock face, left us in awe. Their advanced water conduit system, which allowed the city to flourish in the midst of a desert, is a testament to their technological sophistication.
Furthermore, the eclectic mix of architectural styles, ranging from Hellenistic to Roman, underscored Petra’s significance as a crucial nexus of ancient trade routes. Traversing the Siq, the narrow gorge leading to the Treasury, felt like embarking on a journey through time, each step bringing us closer to an ancient world shrouded in mystery.
In conclusion, our visit to Petra was not merely a visual feast but also an profoundly educational experience. It provided us with a tangible link to ancient history and left us marveling at the heights of human creativity and perseverance. This enigmatic city, carved into the very bones of the earth, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations and the timeless allure of human achievement.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How did you plan your trip to Petra?
- Did you face any challenges during your visit?
Sample Answers (Band 8-9):
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“Planning our expedition to Petra was an exciting process that involved meticulous research and careful consideration. We began by poring over travel guides and consulting online forums to gather insights from fellow travelers. We opted for a reputable local tour company to ensure we had knowledgeable guides who could provide in-depth historical context. We also made sure to book our accommodations well in advance, as Petra can get quite busy during peak seasons. Additionally, we took the time to familiarize ourselves with local customs and etiquette to ensure we were respectful visitors.”
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“While our visit to Petra was overwhelmingly positive, we did encounter a few minor hurdles. The scorching desert heat was particularly challenging, especially during our hike to the Monastery. We combated this by starting our days early, staying well-hydrated, and taking frequent breaks in shaded areas. Another obstacle was the sheer size of the site – it’s easy to underestimate the time needed to fully explore Petra. We addressed this by prioritizing the key attractions we wanted to see and allowing for flexibility in our itinerary. Lastly, navigating the crowds at popular spots like the Treasury required some patience, but we found that visiting during off-peak hours helped mitigate this issue.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question 1: How has tourism changed in your country over the past few decades?
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“Tourism in my country has changed a lot over the past few decades. We’ve seen a big increase in the number of tourists visiting, especially from other Asian countries. This has led to more hotels and restaurants being built, and improvements in transportation. However, it has also caused some problems like overcrowding in popular destinations and environmental issues. The government is trying to promote sustainable tourism to address these challenges.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The evolution of tourism in my country over the past few decades has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve witnessed a paradigm shift from a relatively obscure destination to a major player in the global tourism industry. This transformation has been driven by several factors, including economic liberalization, improved infrastructure, and strategic marketing campaigns.
One of the most notable changes has been the diversification of our tourist demographic. While we once primarily attracted Western tourists, we now see a significant influx of visitors from emerging Asian markets, particularly China and India. This shift has necessitated adaptations in our tourism offerings, with a greater emphasis on cultural experiences and luxury accommodations to cater to these new markets.
The digital revolution has also profoundly impacted our tourism sector. The rise of online booking platforms and social media has democratized travel planning, making it easier for independent travelers to explore our country. This has led to a boom in boutique hotels and experiential tourism options that cater to more discerning travelers.
However, this rapid growth has not been without its challenges. We’re grappling with issues of overtourism in some popular destinations, which has put a strain on local infrastructure and ecosystems. In response, there’s been a growing push towards sustainable tourism practices, with initiatives focusing on community-based tourism and conservation efforts.
In conclusion, while the growth of tourism has brought significant economic benefits, it has also presented us with the complex task of balancing development with preservation. The future of tourism in our country will likely be shaped by our ability to navigate these challenges and create a more sustainable and inclusive tourism model.”
Question 2: Do you think it’s important for people to travel to other countries?
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I think it’s very important for people to travel to other countries. It helps us learn about different cultures and ways of life. When we travel, we can try new foods, see historical sites, and meet people from different backgrounds. This can make us more open-minded and understanding. Travel can also be good for personal growth, as it takes us out of our comfort zone and helps us develop new skills like problem-solving and adaptability.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that international travel is not just important, but essential in our increasingly interconnected world. The benefits of experiencing different cultures firsthand are manifold and can have a profound impact on both personal and societal levels.
Firstly, travel serves as an unparalleled educational tool. It provides a living classroom where one can immerse themselves in different languages, customs, and ways of life. This experiential learning often challenges our preconceptions and broadens our horizons in ways that textbooks or digital media simply cannot match. It fosters cultural literacy and global awareness, which are invaluable skills in our globalized economy.
Moreover, international travel can be a catalyst for personal growth. It often pushes individuals out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to develop adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Navigating unfamiliar environments and overcoming language barriers can boost self-confidence and independence. These experiences can be transformative, leading to increased empathy and a more nuanced understanding of global issues.
From a broader perspective, international travel plays a crucial role in fostering global understanding and peace. When people from different cultures interact on a personal level, it helps to break down stereotypes and promote mutual respect. This people-to-people diplomacy can be more effective than formal diplomatic efforts in building bridges between nations.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that with the privilege of travel comes responsibility. Responsible tourism should be encouraged, where travelers are mindful of their environmental impact and respectful of local cultures. Additionally, efforts should be made to make international travel more accessible and sustainable, ensuring that its benefits can be enjoyed without exacerbating global inequalities or environmental degradation.
In conclusion, while travel should not be seen as a panacea for all global issues, its potential to broaden minds, challenge perspectives, and foster cross-cultural understanding makes it an invaluable tool in creating a more empathetic and interconnected world.”
Vocabulary and Phrases to Boost Your Score
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Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː.ɪnˌspaɪə.rɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or amazing.
Example: The Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. -
Indelible impression /ɪnˈdel.ə.bəl ɪmˈpreʃ.ən/ (noun phrase): A lasting effect or influence.
Example: The kindness of the local people left an indelible impression on me. -
Marvel /ˈmɑː.vəl/ (noun): Something that causes wonder or astonishment.
Example: The Taj Mahal is a marvel of architectural beauty. -
Panoramic /ˌpæn.əˈræm.ɪk/ (adjective): Giving a wide view of an extensive area.
Example: The hotel room offered panoramic views of the city skyline. -
Tapestry /ˈtæp.ə.stri/ (noun): A complex or intricately woven situation or series of events.
Example: The city’s history is a rich tapestry of different cultures and influences.
Describe a family celebration that is important to you can also be an interesting topic to discuss in IELTS Speaking, as it allows you to showcase your ability to describe cultural events and personal experiences.
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
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Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
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Use a variety of vocabulary: Don’t rely on simple words. Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions into your answers.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t give short, simple answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to support your opinions.
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Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for a high score. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.
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Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and speak naturally.
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Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question before answering. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.
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Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Speak naturally about your own experiences and opinions.
Remember, describing an interesting dish you like or a nature spot you would recommend to tourists can also be excellent topics to practice your descriptive skills for the IELTS Speaking test. These topics allow you to demonstrate your ability to use sensory language and express personal preferences, which are valuable skills in the IELTS Speaking exam.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about interesting places you’ve visited with friends in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak confidently, use a range of vocabulary, and provide detailed responses that showcase your English language skills.
Describe a job you would not like to do is another potential topic that could come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Practicing this topic can help you develop your ability to express preferences and give reasons for your opinions.
Lastly, don’t forget that being able to describe a song that you listen to when you want to feel calm can also be a great way to showcase your ability to talk about emotions and personal experiences in English. This kind of topic allows you to demonstrate your range of vocabulary related to feelings and music, which can be impressive in an IELTS Speaking test.